A Nanny’s Guide To Requesting a Raise

As a professional nanny, your job is more than just babysitting—it’s providing essential care, nurturing, and support to the children and families you work with. Over time, your responsibilities may increase, your experience grows, and your skills develop. It’s only natural to want your compensation to reflect your value.

As a trusted nanny agency, we understand that asking for a raise can feel intimidating. However, advocating for yourself professionally and confidently is an important skill. Below, we’ve outlined the best strategies to help you successfully request a salary increase.

1. Know Your Worth

Before initiating the conversation, evaluate your experience, responsibilities, and how your role has evolved. Consider:
✅ Have your duties expanded beyond the original job description?
✅ Have you gained additional certifications, such as CPR, First Aid, or child development training?
✅ Have you been with the family for a long time, providing stability and consistency?
✅ Do you go above and beyond, such as meal prepping, tutoring, or organizing activities?

If you can answer “yes” to several of these questions, you likely have a strong case for a raise.

2. Research Competitive Pay

Understanding the market rate for nannies in your area is crucial. Use resources like:

• Nanny salary surveys

• Online job boards (such as Care.com or Indeed)

• Local nanny agency salary guides

Consider factors like your location, experience level, and whether you work full-time, part-time, or as a live-in nanny. If your current salary is below market rate, this is a valid reason to request an increase.

3. Choose the Right Time

Timing is everything. The best opportunities to ask for a raise include:
📌 Annual work anniversaries – A natural time for salary reviews.
📌 When taking on additional responsibilities – If the family has added tasks like driving the children to activities or helping with homeschooling.
📌 After a positive milestone – Such as a great review from the parents or the successful completion of a challenging period (e.g., potty training, sleep training).

Avoid bringing up a raise request during stressful times, such as when the family is dealing with personal issues or financial struggles.

4. Prepare for the Conversation

Before speaking with your employers, prepare your case. Write down key points, such as:

• How long you’ve been with the family

• Any new responsibilities you’ve taken on

• Special skills or certifications you’ve acquired

• The current market rate for nannies with your experience

If you have performance feedback from the parents or references from past employers, bring those up as well.

5. Use Professional & Positive Language

When asking for a raise, be confident but respectful. Here’s an example of how to start the conversation:

📌 “I really love working with your family and being part of your children’s growth and development. Over the past year, I’ve taken on additional responsibilities, such as [list responsibilities]. I’ve also completed [mention certifications or training], which have helped me improve in my role. Given my experience and the current market rates, I would love to discuss the possibility of a salary adjustment.”

This approach keeps the conversation professional and focused on your value rather than personal financial needs.

6. Be Open to Negotiation

Sometimes, families may not be able to offer a raise immediately but may provide alternative benefits, such as:
✔️ Additional paid time off
✔️ Contributions to health insurance or retirement savings
✔️ Reimbursement for training or certifications
✔️ A structured timeline for a future raise

If the family isn’t able to meet your salary request, consider negotiating these perks instead.

7. Remain Professional, Regardless of the Outcome

If the family agrees to your request—congratulations! Be sure to get any salary changes in writing to avoid future misunderstandings.

If they decline, don’t take it personally. Instead, ask for feedback:
📌 “I understand that now may not be the right time. Could we revisit this conversation in a few months?”

This shows professionalism and leaves the door open for a future discussion.

As a nanny, you play a vital role in a family’s life, and you deserve fair compensation for your dedication and hard work. By preparing thoroughly, choosing the right time, and communicating professionally, you can increase your chances of successfully securing a raise.

At Nounou Nanny, we’re here to support nannies in their professional growth. If you need additional guidance, feel free to reach out to us for career coaching, salary advice, and contract negotiations.

Best of Luck!